Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD)

Thank you for your interest in the Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) Certification program. Its goal is to establish a portfolio of pre-qualified industrial sites for which the due diligence has been completed prior to a prospect visit. The GRAD Certification program can have a very positive impact on a community. Since the program's inception in 2008, more than 10,000 jobs have been created on GRAD sites. 
 

GRAD Certification Process Overview 

The following process applies to both new and renewal applications: 

1. The applicant completes this interest form to request an overview (via Microsoft Teams) of the GRAD Certification program and to review the sample application in detail. Required information includes: (a) the names and email addresses of all participants; (b) dates/times of availability for all participants for the next ten (10) business days for scheduling purposes; (c) a real estate flyer or other aerial photograph with the proposed site clearly marked. The objective of the meeting is to review the application requirements; program policies/procedures and identify any site issues that may prevent certification. Please note that the applicant must be either a property owner, Development Authority or Economic Development Office.

2. Following that meeting, an email is sent to the applicant with a unique URL to the online application specific to the site. If needed, a list of engineering and site consulting firms with experience in the GRAD Certification process can be provided. We suggest you engage a qualified engineering or site consultant firm in the certification process.

3. The application is submitted entirely online and is reviewed by a third-party consultant to ensure that all requirements have been met. Each applicant must provide complete studies, reports and graphic exhibits that clearly meet or exceed the data required.

4. After the application is reviewed, a detailed findings report based on the submittals will be prepared. This findings report will explain what follow-up is needed for any application sections that have not met the requirements. Each applicant may then resubmit a completely, updated application. Any deficiencies are expected to be resolved in a responsive, timely manner consistent with a high level of professional skills and care.

5. If all requirements have been met, our application summary is reviewed by the GRAD Board of Advisors. The review of the application summary is typically completed within 3-5 business days. Notification of approval or disapproval is made at the completion of this review.

Please contact us at: [email protected] with any questions.